Midwest Community Health Associates used a basket auction to generate special events dollars for the United Way campaign. Departments at MCHA created a number of different themed baskets, including Ohio State, car wash, romance, cold relief, coffee, kitchen, dog, movie, fitness, and wine. They then displayed all the baskets and had a silent auction to raise money for United Way.

The neat part about this special event is that it served a number of purposes. First, it encouraged those who previously haven't contributed to United Way to do so. Also, it built teamwork among the employees as each department worked to create their basket. These types of "non-traditional revenue" will be critical to the future of the United Way.

Thanks to Troy Simon, Stacey Bock and all the employees of MCHA who helped to put this together. The auction generated another $1,581 for our United Way.

Tomco employees contributed $16,240 to Campaign 2006, an increase of $700 ITW matches all contributions based on percentage of participation at the local plant. Since 75% participation was reached corporation-wide, employee gifts are now matched dollar-for-dollar. This means that more than $32,000 for our local United Way was generated through the efforts of ITW/Tomco.

Thanks to all the employees at ITW/Tomco for a great 2006 campaign!

Did you know that donations to the Thomas M. Herman Leadership Giving Society made up almost 40% of Campaign 2005? This year's leadership giving total to date is $65,577 or 44% of our $150,000 leadership goal.

Individuals and spouses who contribute $500 or more to the United Way of Williams County each year are enrolled as leadership givers.

Please promote leadership giving within your company. For as little as $9.62 per week, someone can make a difference in a huge way.

Susan called the House of Ruth after being assaulted by her husband. The abuse had been going on for years, each time getting progressively worse. This time, her arms was broken when he pushed her out of the car and took off with their three children, ages 1, 3 and 4, screaming in the back seat.

Arrangements were made for Susan to be picked up and brought into the shelter. When she arrived, she had nothing but the clothes on her back. Her primary concern was not her own welfare, but that of her children. She was taken to the emergency room where her arm was set in a cast. House of Ruth staff secured clothing and medication fer her and referred her to Legal Services.

Once her husband was located by law enforcement, he was taken to CCNO and charged with domestic violence. The children were brought to Susan and eventually she was awarded custody while her husband was allowed only supervised visitation.

While at the House of Ruth, Susan was able to prepare a resume and seek employment. She found an apartment and was assisted with furnishings and other household items. After exiting, she continued to participate in a support group. Thanks to the House of Ruth and United Way, Susan and her children have their life back.